Former "Little House on the Prairie" actress Melissa Gilbert has revealed why she left Los Angeles behind in 2013, citing the city's obsession with youth as her primary reason for relocating to New York City.
In an exclusive interview, the 60-year-old actress expressed her discomfort with LA's anti-aging culture. "I just didn't feel like that was a safe place for me to age," Gilbert said, adding that the term "anti-aging" particularly bothers her. "Anti-aging means dead," she stated firmly.
During her time in California, Gilbert felt constant pressure to maintain a certain image and size. However, her perspective on aging transformed completely after moving to the East Coast. "I went from, 'Oh God, I better not get older!' to 'Oh God, I'm so glad I'm older!'" she shared.
Now residing in Manhattan's Upper West Side with husband Timothy Busfield, Gilbert embraces her age with pride. At 60, she celebrates her accumulated wisdom and experiences, viewing this milestone as an incredible chapter in her life.
Despite her decision to leave, Gilbert maintains a deep connection to Los Angeles, especially evident during recent challenges like the Pacific Palisades wildfires. "It just wasn't the right place for me to live in any longer but it will always be my hometown," she reflected.
The actress continues to thrive professionally, preparing for an off-Broadway play titled "Still" alongside "Mad Men" actor Mark Moses. She's also involved with the Hallmark series "When Calls the Heart" and runs Modern Prairie, a company creating apparel and decor for older women.
Through her career transitions and relocations, Gilbert has found peace and authenticity in embracing her age, proving that sometimes the best path forward means leaving familiar territory behind.